Ramsey says he will be competitive in governor's race despite in-session fund-raising ban

Andy Sher
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Dec 28, 2009 at 12:00 AM

NASHVILLE — Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey said he will remain competitive in Republicans’ 2010 gubernatorial primary even if lawmakers don’t change a state law that now stops him from raising campaign cash when the General Assembly is meeting.

“It will shut me down (fundraising) for three months, but I’ve been concentrating on raising money right now,” the Blountville Republican said. “Absolutely I can stay in the race. Wait ’til the numbers come out, and I think people will realize I can stay in.”

He said he is undecided on whether to push yet again in the regular legislative session expected to start next month for changes to the 1996 law. It currently says sitting Tennessee House and Senate members cannot accept campaign contributions for any office when the General Assembly is in regular session.